Offbeat Lyon
Lyon is full of hidden gems and unexpected, offbeat experiences that go far beyond the classic tourist trails.
When you stay at Hôtel des Célestins, ideally located in the heart of the Presqu’île, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore a more secret, off the beaten path Lyon – a city brimming with original discoveries, lesser-known spots and surprising urban treasures.
Local Markets & Authentic Lyonnais Atmosphere
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For an authentic taste of local life and a different side of Lyon, don’t miss Lyon’s vibrant markets.
Just a stone’s throw from Hôtel des Célestins, the Marché Saint-Antoine stretches along the Saône riverbank with stalls offering regional produce, cheeses, flowers, and gourmet specialities in a friendly, bustling atmosphere that captures the spirit of the city.
A little further up the hill, the Croix-Rousse Market offers another slice of everyday Lyon, ideal for sampling seasonal ingredients and soaking up the local lifestyle.
Offbeat Activities & Unique Experiences
in Lyon
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Looking for something different? Lyon has a range of surprising, off the beaten track and entertaining activities to enjoy close to our hotel.
Fancy a river tour?
Try a licence-free electric boat ride on the Saône — a gentle and original way to discover the city.
Or for a peaceful and convenient experience, hop aboard the Vaporetto, a river shuttle that connects the Confluence district with Vieux Lyon, stopping at Bellecour along the way.
It’s a pleasant and refreshing way to cross the city while enjoying a unique view of Lyon’s riversides, bridges, and architecture.
Frescos and Murals in Lyon
Art lovers can hunt for Lyon’s famous wall murals, starting with the Fresque des Lyonnais and Bibliothèque de la Cité – striking trompe-l’œil masterpieces located near the Presqu’île.
These enormous frescoes pay tribute to the city’s great historical, cultural, and literary figures.
Keep wandering into Croix-Rousse or the 7th arrondissement to spot other urban canvases like the Fresque des Canuts or the luminous Fresque Lumière.
Street Art in Lyon
If contemporary urban art is more your style, Lyon’s Street Art trail is full of surprises – from bold political messages to abstract compositions and giant portraits.
Found on walls, staircases, and even under bridges, these works by local and international artists turn the city into an open-air gallery. It’s a brilliant way to explore the city on foot or by bike.
Tête d'Or Park
If you are looking to unwind, the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of Lyon’s most beloved green spaces, is easily accessible from Hôtel des Célestins.
Rent a four-person bike to explore its wide, shaded paths with friends or family, or enjoy a peaceful rowboat ride across the lake, gliding past swans and wooded islets for a romantic moment in nature.
L'Atelier des Soieries - Silk Atelier
Finally, for a glimpse into one of Lyon’s most iconic crafts, step into the Atelier des Soieries, just a short walk from the Presqu’île.
This workshop keeps the city’s proud tradition of handmade silk alive, with demonstrations on antique looms and a boutique showcasing the finest artisanal pieces.
Visitors can discover each stage of the process—from design to printing—and even take home a one-of-a-kind creation. A perfect visit for those interested in craftsmanship and living heritage, just minutes away on foot from Hôtel des Célestins.
Secret Museums & Hidden Gems
in Lyon
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Lyon’s lesser-known museums
Lyon is also home to smaller, lesser-known museums and art spaces that are well worth discovering.
Step inside the Musée des Miniatures et Décors de Cinéma, a charming cabinet of curiosities where talented artists recreate miniature film sets and surreal dioramas with jaw-dropping detail.
The Musée de l’Imprimerie et de la Communication Graphique, housed in a Renaissance townhouse, offers a fascinating journey through printing history – from Gutenberg to digital media – all in a beautiful and peaceful setting.
Textile lovers shouldn’t miss the Musée des Tissus, one of the world’s richest fabric collections. Housed in an elegant private mansion, it spans everything from ancient weaves to haute couture and celebrates Lyon’s legacy as the silk capital of France.
Lyon’s Hidden Gems
Finally, make time for a true hidden gem – the Jardin Rosa Mir in Croix-Rousse. Open to the public on Saturday afternoons (in season), this secret garden was created by a passionate artisan as a tribute to his mother. A whimsical, meditative space filled with mosaics, quirky sculptures and lush greenery, it’s unlike anywhere else in Lyon.
Another hidden gem: the Jean Couty Museum, located upstream from central Lyon on the banks of the Saône is also a great option for an off the beaten experience. This bright and intimate museum pays tribute to one of the city’s great 20th-century painters, showcasing a rich permanent collection alongside carefully curated temporary exhibitions.
Just a few steps away, enjoy a coffee and a pastry at the renowned Jocteur bakery, then take a stroll to the mysterious Île Barbe. Accessible on foot via a small bridge, this peaceful island is home to an ancient abbey, elegant historic houses, and a gourmet restaurant.
